Kohlrabi Harvest And Store Tips

Cover How to Grow Kohlrabi (512x1024)

Table of Contents

• What is Kohlrabi?
• When to Plant Kohlrabi?
• How to Plant Kohlrabi?
• How to Care for Kohlrabi?
• How to Harvest Kohlrabi?

What is Kohlrabi?

Kohlrabi is a cool-season vegetable that belongs to the same family as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale. It has a bulbous stem with leaves that sprout from its top, and it comes in both purple and green varieties. Kohlrabi is a great source of vitamin C and fiber and can be used in a variety of recipes, including salads, soups, and stir-fries.

When to Plant Kohlrabi?

Kohlrabi can be grown in both the spring and fall seasons. In the spring, you should plant kohlrabi 2-4 weeks before the last frost date, which is typically in late April to early May, depending on your location. In the fall, you should plant kohlrabi 6-8 weeks before the first frost date, which is usually in late September to early October. Kohlrabi prefers cooler temperatures and can withstand light frosts, but it does not do well in extreme heat.

How to Plant Kohlrabi?

When planting kohlrabi, it is important to choose a location that receives full sun or partial shade and has well-draining soil. Kohlrabi prefers soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. To prepare the soil, add compost or well-rotted manure and mix well.

Kohlrabi seeds should be sown directly into the soil, about ¼ inch deep and 2-3 inches apart. After planting, water the soil well and keep it moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 5-10 days. Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them to 4-6 inches apart to give them enough room to grow.

How to Care for Kohlrabi?

One of the most important things to remember when caring for kohlrabi is to keep the soil moist. Kohlrabi does not like dry soil, so it is important to water it regularly, especially during dry spells. It is also important to fertilize kohlrabi every 3-4 weeks with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.

Kohlrabi is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to cabbage worms and root maggots. To prevent infestations, you can cover your plants with row covers or use an organic insecticide. It is also important to weed around your kohlrabi plants regularly to prevent competition for nutrients and water.

How to Harvest Kohlrabi?

Kohlrabi is ready to harvest when the bulbous stem is about 2-3 inches in diameter, which usually takes 55-60 days from the time of planting. To harvest kohlrabi, use a sharp knife to cut the stem at ground level. The leaves can also be harvested and used in recipes, but be sure to leave a few leaves on the plant to continue growing.

Kohlrabi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or blanched and frozen for longer storage. To blanch and freeze kohlrabi, peel and slice it into ¼ inch thick pieces and blanch in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Drain and cool the kohlrabi slices, then freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.

Conclusion

Kohlrabi is a nutritious and delicious vegetable that can easily be grown in your backyard garden. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can successfully plant, care for, and harvest kohlrabi. Remember to keep the soil moist, fertilize regularly, and protect your plants from pests and disease. With a little patience and care, you can enjoy the tasty and healthy benefits of kohlrabi in your own backyard.